Section 508 refers to the government-developed standards by which web sites meeting the needs of the handicapped are to be developed. These standards are intended to provide reasonable access to all web sites by those with disabilities.

While the definition can be confusing, sixteen standards were developed:

• Every non-text element needs to have a text equivalent
• Any multimedia needs to have equivalent alternatives, synchronized to it
• Information that is displayed with color needs to be able to be read and analyzed without color as well
• Documents need to be readable without a style sheet.
• An image map on the server side needs redundant text links.
• Client-side image maps are provided when geometric shapes can be used.
• Data tables will have row and column headers for identification.
• Markup will be used for data cell association.
• Frames will be identified with titles.
• Screen flicker frequency is also regulated.
• If compliance cannot be done any other way, a text-only version of the site needs to be provided and updated as often as the regular page.
• If scripting languages are used, functional text needs to be provided to be read by assistive technology.
• If a plugin is needed (such as Flash or Shockwave), a link needs to be provided to download the necessary plugin.
• All forms needing input need to be usable with assistive technology.
• No repetitive navigation links.
• If there is a timed response necessary, the user needs to be alerted as such and given sufficient time.

In order to do business with the government, 508 accessibility compliance is a requisite. It's also the right thing to do. From a marketing perspective, accessible websites will reach and serve a wider audience. So get accessible, and we'll take care of the details. If you are a government contractor, or serve a wide audience of limited ability clients, such as a medical equipment retailer, and adherence to this aspect of website development seems daunting or confusing, definitely discuss with your current web developer, or call us at 619.504.0450. Relax, we'll have your back.

San Diego Web Studio builds W3C Compliant websites. We offer diverse and advanced web development products and services for site design and marketing. We have extensive back end programming capabilities that include C+ and custom scripting for mobile interaction and functionality.